Gear Check out Peltor’s “minimalist” active ear-pro David Reeder May 7, 2015 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Learn More Find out more about how we test products. Here's something I'm looking forward to trying out on the range most lickety-split. We ran across them at the Border Patrol Law Enforcement Technology Expo. These are the 3M Peltor TEP-100 Tactical Earplugs; ear-bud sized in-ear digital (i.e. active) hearing protection. Think the guts of a set of Comtac 4's without the bulk (and I suppose, radio capability). They'll automatically dampen loud noises (like gunfire) down to the 85 decibel range while boosting lesser volumes, allowing normal conversation in between. Like the inner buds of the excellent Comtac 4 headsets TEP-100s are powered by lithium ion batteries rated to hold a charge for 16 or more hours of use, recharging via 3 AA batteries in the carrying case or via a USB Micro B port on the side — once plugged in to the USB port it automatically shuts down the pull from the batteries, which of course increases longevity, and there's a charging status LED to advise battery state. Spec sheets advise the TEP-100s are water resistant and you'll get up to 16 charges per set of AA batteries. Wearers can select from 2 volume modes which is selected by a small tactile button on the side. Price varies from $225 to $300 depending on where you find them online. Each case comes with multiple sizes and types ear tips to fit various ear canals and a cable to keep them tethered for those of you who lose your stuff constantly like me. Read more about the TEP-100s right here. Why you can trust RECOIL Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products. NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.
